Marshall ISD Calls for $41.9 Million Bond Election
Marshall Independent School District (MISD) has announced plans to call for a special bond election on May 6, 2023, which will allow voters to decide on a $41.9 million bond package. The funds will be used to expand and update Marshall High School, which was first opened in 1980. The package includes the construction of a new Career and Technical Education (CTE) building and a new auxiliary gymnasium, as well as modernizing the high school’s library, lunchroom, core classrooms, CTE classrooms, and common areas. Renovations will also involve the replacement of decades-old furniture, flooring, and technology.
MISD Superintendent, Dr. Richele Langley, emphasized that the bond package’s passing would not impose any tax rate increase on the community. The district has been evaluating facility options for over a year and formed a Long-Range Facilities Planning Committee in November 2022 to evaluate needs and provide recommendations to the MISD School Board.
The proposed expansion of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is expected to help students develop skills and learning opportunities and prepare them to be career and work-ready. Last year, students received over 300 industry-based certifications in automotive, health, and business. An expanded CTE program could also benefit college-bound students, as they can earn college credits in career and technical courses, which could save them and their families money on tuition.
Brad Burris, the MISD School Board President, stated that the proposed bond package is essential to provide the funding needed to upgrade programs and facilities to offer the best education possible to students. He added that the students of Marshall deserve the very best, and upgrading facilities and programs can help attract and retain superior staff.
The MISD has been doing an excellent job of maintaining Marshall High School, which is over forty years old. However, a major renovation has not taken place since the school’s expansion was completed in 1988. The proposed bond package aims to address the limitations of the school’s capabilities and provide a suitable environment that is academically in the best interest of students for their advancement, as well as financially and economically appropriate for the community.
Community members will have an opportunity to learn more about the bond election at upcoming informational sessions, with dates and locations to be provided soon. They can also read more about the proposed improvements that the bond is calling for on the district’s website beginning on February 22, 2023, at marshallisd.com/o/bond2023. With the proposed upgrades and renovations, the MISD is taking a significant step towards providing a better learning environment for the students of Marshall, and the community has the chance to support this progress by voting in favor of the bond initiative.